AFC Champions League Elite - Sanfrecce live up to Skibbe’s expectations

Melbourne: Head coach Michael Skibbe credited determination and intensity for Sanfrecce Hiroshima’s rousing start to their AFC Champions League Elite™ 2025/26 campaign on Tuesday.

Second-half goals from Marcos Junior and Yotaro Nakajima sealed a 2-0 win against Australia’s Melbourne City FC with Skibbe praising his team’s focus.

#ACLElite | Melbourne City FC (AUS) 0-2 Sanfrecce Hiroshima (JPN)

“I’m really happy with the result and also with our performance. We worked hard on the attacking side, pressing as early as possible, winning many balls and creating chances,” said Skibbe.

“In the first half we had some good opportunities, and in the second half we took them well, especially with the goals. It was a nice win for us, and we’re very pleased to start the Champions League season in such a positive way.”

It may have been a disappointing start for Melbourne City but head coach Aurelio Vidmar took home the positives.

“Defeat is always disappointing, but we can take positives from this performance as preparation for the season and the next game. It was our first competitive match since the Grand Final and we did a lot of good things.

“The frustration is in how we conceded the two goals, particularly the penalty, as we should have been more positive in possession. Our biggest issue was turnovers in the opening stages, which gave them momentum. In reality, we had more time on the ball than we thought.”

Sanfrecce live up to Skibbe’s expectations

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